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Due to a beached whale, state parks were closed this weekend and the annual fireworks were moved from Liberty State Park to what I consider the superior waterfront location (it’s easier to get in/out on foot). Not to bad photo … Continue reading →

As I do every year, a short detour through Rockefeller Center before Christmas to see what’s going on after work. Next year I think I’ll take something more than my cell phone and make some more proper photos. Should have thought of that earlier. This year a few minutes in the LEGO store, since LEGO is awesome.

Each of the 4-6 sides would contain a panel comprised of a touchscreen with simple accessible features such as:

Emergency button to facilitate contacting emergency services.

Transit information (shown).

Event information (for example how to get to Thanksgiving day parade on Thanksgiving).

Other information the city feels should be accessible.

Microphone, speaker and webcam to facilitate communication with emergency services, TTS for those with disabilities and future uses.

Extra space on panel could be advertising or boilerplate information.

Above the user accessible panel would be kiosk space. LED panels would be able to show advertising and information. In an emergency the city could utilize this space to provide directions and information. For example where nearby storm shelters can be found, or amber alerts.

Because all info space on the kiosks are essentially screens they can be programmed and updated remotely over IP network.

Each location could be a WiFi Hotspot providing short free internet access and for a small daily charge access at any other kiosk for up to __ MB for the day or other rate plans. Possibly partner with ISP’s who would offer hotspot access to their customers.

Ideally kiosks would have an overhang to keep sun glare off panels. Otherwise it would be open to deter crime that phone booths saw.

This plan would involve advertising revenue, internet connectivity revenue and possibly even partnership revenue via ISP’s taking advantage of the mesh network built upon this existing infrastructure in a populated area.

The Verge has an interesting article, video and photo essay on the repair efforts at Verizon’s Broad Street facility after Hurricane Sandy. It’s amazing to see the mess of copper. Sadly, even before Hurricane Sandy this was hardly awesome infrastructure, it’s generations old copper. The upside is it’s now being modernized, the downside is that this is a real drag for anyone who relies on that facility.